As the capital city of Taiwan, Taipei embraces different cultures and represents a mix of modern and traditional. The city is divided into 12 administrative districts, among which Daan, Songshan and Xinyi districts tend to be the most bustling parts of the city.
Taipei is one of the safest cities in the world for solo travelers. English is widely spoken in Taipei, and people are friendly and willing to help, so it is super easy to get around!
Whether you are planning a trip to Taiwan or just looking for a desire holiday destination, here are some must-see places and handy tips for you.
1. Dadaocheng
If you are looking for the cultural and historical parts of Taipei, Dadaocheng is the site you won’t want to miss.The area used to be the aboriginal community. It is said that Dadaocheng was named from a tract of land for rice drying. Since Tamsui harbor developed in 1860 A.D., Dadaocheng became major trading port for tea, silk textiles and cotton, among which oolong tea accounted for a large part, and gave rise to the emergence of Dadaocheng. As a tea processing centre, besides numerous local tea shops, foreign companies also set up their office in Dadaocheng, in order to engage in tea trade and related businesses.
Dadaocheng’s trading center status had declined during the Japanese colonial era. Nowadays, the area has been revived as a tourism spot with variety of traditional shops and chic cafes.
→ Event: Tua-Tiu-Tiann International Festival of Arts (TTTIFA)
Time:
Every October
(Photos source: Tua-Tiu-Tiann International Festival of Art)
2. Xinyi District
After the historical essence of the city, you might be curious about the modern side of Taipei. Xinyi District is where city government and city council located; It is also the commercial center and prime shopping area of Taipei.
The most recognized landmark - Taipei 101 (Taipei World Financial Centre) was once the tallest building of the world. Its design is inspired the shape of bamboo and the structure is capable of resisting the earthquake and tropical storm. Corresponding to seven days of a week, one of seven colours of the rainbow was chosen to light up the building every evening.
A great way to catch the view of Taipei 101 is hiking up Elephant Mountain. The hiking trail is close to Xiangshan Metro Station. A short hike takes around 20 minutes to the top, where you can enjoy the best city view and beautiful sunset during the late afternoon.
→ Event: Taipei 101 New Year's Eve Fireworks
Time: New Year's Eve
3. Yangmingshan National Park (Backyard of Taipei)
For nature lover, Yangmingshan National Park would be the great choice for a day trip in Taipei. It is the only national park located in northern part of Taiwan. One of the main peaks, Seven Star Mountain (1,120 meter above sea level), is tallest dormant volcano in Taiwan and the highest peak of Taipei City. Another beautiful scenic spot in the Park is Xiaoyoukeng, which is famous for the fumaroles, sulfur crystals, hot springs and volcanic landslides. All the spots within National Park can be easily access by shuttle bus, car or scooter.
→ Event: Flower Festival
Time: From February to August (depending on flower blooming seasons)
Little Travel Tips
1. MRT (Metro): Remember to get an EasyCard
with you~ Besides the Metro, you can use it for buses, YouBike, trains and even
buying stuff at the convenience store.
There is also FREE battery charging service
in every metro station.
- Useful app: Friendly Metro Taipei
2. Youbike: If you prefer cycling around the city, you can find most of Youbike
stations near MRT stations
- Useful app: uBike-Taipei
3. Free wifi spot: There is wifi that covers entire city, and you can access it through MRT stations, Conveniences
stores, Bus with Free wifi logo, etc.
4. Payment method: Cash is more preferred, though
credit card is accepted by most nice restaurants and cafes. Also, keep your receipt for the chance to
win lottery!!
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